Also on Thursday, the Panthers released offensive tackle Nate Chandler, who joined the team as an undrafted rookie defensive lineman in 2012 but switched to offense in 2013. Chandler started the final eight games of 2013 and the first 11 of 2014 on the right side of the line but sat out the end of the 2014 season and all of 2015 with a right knee injury.

Edwards, a second-round draft choice of the Baltimore Ravens back in 2004, signed with Carolina prior to the 2012 season. He was a starter his first season and a key reserve and mentor for defensive tackles Star Lotulelei and Kawann Short the past three seasons.

"Dwan represents what we look for in defensive tackles," general manager Dave Gettleman said. "He was smart, tough, played with discipline and was team-oriented. His contributions played a key role in what we are building here and his leadership will be missed. We wish him the best."

Edwards played in 12 games this past season, recording 13 tackles and one sack and added one tackle in three postseason games. It was statistically the least productive year in Carolina for Edwards, who totaled 115 tackles and 13 sacks his first three seasons with the team. His first year with the Panthers, when he started 14 games, Edwards recorded six sacks to eclipse his career total of 5.5 sacks that he accumulated from 2004-2011.